KJV ORIGINAL
The small and great are there; and the servant is free from his master.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
Both the unimportant and the powerful are there together; and the slave is free from his owner.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
Job is saying that in death, all social distinctions disappear - rich and poor, powerful and powerless all become equal, and no one rules over anyone else.
📚 Historical Context
Job is in the depths of despair after losing his children, wealth, and health, and is contemplating death as a relief from suffering. In ancient times, there were stark divisions between social classes, with servants and slaves having no freedom or rights. Job sees death as the great equalizer where these painful earthly hierarchies no longer exist.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.
Share or Save